1. BAE Systems

BAE’s U.S. business was involved in the largest potential merger in the industry this year, as London-based parent company BAE Systems negotiated with Paris-based European Aeronautic Defence and Space. However, the deal ultimately fell apart, leaving the future of the U.S. unit cloudy. BAE, which builds combat vehicles and electronic systems while also providing services, divested some of its businesses, including its Safariland unit, which makes gear for police departments.

Trivia

BAE Systems built the M88A2 Hercules vehicle that pulled down the statue of Saddam Hussein in 2003.